Rajpath calling CUJ star

This Republic Day parade in the national capital will be special not only for Jharkhand, but for Ranchi too.

A student of Central University of Jharkhand (CUJ) in Brambe has been handpicked to witness the January 26 celebrations from the Prime Minister's box at Rajpath.

Shalini Sudhir, who is in the fourth year of her five-year integrated MBA course at the varsity, is among 100 bright students selected countrywide to share the hot seat with Manmohan Singh.

"I feel lucky and honoured. Observing R-Day with none other than our honourable Prime Minister will indeed be thrilling," Hazaribagh girl Shalini said before leaving for Delhi on Wednesday. She added that the opportunity would further inspire her to work for India's progress.

Daughter of a mathematics teacher of St Xavier's School in the neighbouring town, the 22-year-old was selected by the PMO for her excellent academic performance.

"Shalini has the distinction of being the topper of her course for three consecutive years. She is a brilliant student. That is why she has bagged this golden opportunity. She will set a precedent for her fellow students," said vice chancellor D.T. Khathing.

This year, dokra art is Jharkhand's R-Day tableau theme. The state has bagged the honour to participate in the Rajpath parade after four years. Artisans from Khunti and artistes from Ranchi's Namkum block have already reached Delhi, accompanied by officials from the state information and public relations department.

The buoyed Brambe varsity has, meanwhile, formed a group of 14 students who will perform in a cultural programme organised by the state art and culture department on the eve of R-Day. "Our students will present dances and group songs. We are practising for the occasion," said B.P. Sinha, the dean of English at Central University of Jharkhand.

Vijay Paswan, the assistant director of the state art and culture department, said the function was being organised at the Aryabhatta Auditorium of Ranchi University. "Students from many colleges of the city as well as cultural troupes have been invited to take part in the programme," he added.

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